Carnation
Dianthus caryophyllus
- Native to:
- Albania, Greece, NW. Balkan Pen.
Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz
Taxonomy
- Division:
- Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
- Family:
- Caryophyllaceae
- Genus:
- Dianthus
- Species:
- Dianthus caryophyllus
- USDA Symbol:
- DICA26
Growth Characteristics
- Life Cycle:
- Perennial
- Growth Habit:
- Forb/herb
- Height:
- 80 cm
- Light Requirements:
- Full Sun
- Drought Tolerance:
- Medium
- Bloom Months:
- may,jun,jul,aug,sep
- Bloom Colors:
- pink, red, white, yellow, purple
Wildlife Benefits
- Bees:
- ★☆☆☆☆ Documented bee visitation (GBIF)
- Butterflies & Moths:
- ★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)
- Caterpillars:
- ★★☆☆☆ Recorded caterpillar host plant (HOSTS Database)
Host Plant for Caterpillars
black-shaded platynota (Platynota flavedana), Cabbage looper (Trichoplusia ni), corn earworm (Helicoverpa zea), Isabella tiger moth (Pyrrharctia isabella), Obliquebanded leafroller (Choristoneura rosaceana), Omnivorous Leafroller (Platynota stultana), orange tortrix moth (Argyrotaenia citrana), stalk borer moth (Papaipema nebris), Variegated cutworm (Peridroma saucia)
Garden & Ecology Notes
- Wildlife Value:
- bees, butterflies
- Fragrant:
- Yes
Soil Requirements
- Soil Type:
- rich, well-drained loamy soil
- pH:
- 6.0 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Drainage:
- excellent drainage required
- Moisture:
- dry to moderate
- Notes:
- native to Mediterranean regions; prefers calcareous soils
Propagation & Germination
- Stratification:
- None required
- Germination Time:
- 7–14 days
- Notes:
- Seeds germinate readily without pretreatment; sow on surface and keep moist at 18-21°C.
ORGHPS Germination Guide: Sow @ 20C. Germinates within 3 months. Requires darkness.
Where to Buy
Nationwide Seller
- Sheffield's Seed (seeds)
- Vermont Wildflower Farm (nursery and seeds)